Getting Started with HopeAndHire
Answers to common questions from job seekers, volunteers, employers, and referral organizations.
Getting Started
What is HopeAndHire?
HopeAndHire is a workforce readiness platform dedicated to helping formerly incarcerated individuals secure meaningful employment. We connect job seekers with volunteers—primarily recruiters, HR professionals, and hiring managers—who provide resume feedback, mock interviews, and career coaching.
Who is HopeAndHire for?
We support:
- Job seekers transitioning out of incarceration
- Organizations (nonprofits, case managers, reentry programs) working with these individuals
- Volunteers with hiring expertise
- Employers committed to second-chance hiring
How does it work?
Partner organizations refer job seekers through our platform. Volunteers then provide AI-assisted resume help, mock interviews, or coaching. Employers post jobs and can view submitted resumes and cover letters.
Is there a cost to use HopeAndHire?
No. All core services are free for job seekers, nonprofits, and employers. Premium features may be offered in the future.
For Job Seekers
How do I get help with my resume or interview preparation?
Ask your case manager or program contact to submit a request through our platform. A volunteer will be matched to help with your resume, cover letter, or interview prep.
Can I sign up directly as a job seeker?
Not at this time. We only accept referrals from verified partner organizations, case managers, and nonprofits.
What types of jobs are typically available?
Roles often include construction, logistics, hospitality, healthcare, food service, customer support, and manufacturing—fields where reliability and on-the-job training are valued.
Will HopeAndHire find me a job?
We’re not a staffing agency. We provide tools and guidance to help you prepare for the job market and connect you with employers who believe in second chances.
Do I qualify if I haven’t been incarcerated?
Our focus is on justice-involved individuals, but we don’t turn away sincere requests for help. Every case is considered individually.
Will HopeAndHire help someone who is undocumented?
Yes. We don’t verify work eligibility—that’s up to the employer. Our goal is to support anyone facing barriers to employment.
For Volunteers
What do volunteers do?
Volunteers assist with resume and cover letter writing, conduct mock interviews, and provide career coaching. All sessions are 30 minutes and done remotely.
Do I need to commit to a schedule?
No. You choose when and how often you volunteer. Whether you do one session or many, your help matters.
Who are you looking for?
We seek experienced recruiters, hiring managers, or HR professionals familiar with resume review and interview evaluation. Volunteers must be able to improve AI-generated drafts.
Will I be trained?
We provide an FAQ, videos, and email support. There is no live training or onboarding staff—volunteers are expected to be self-sufficient.
Will my efforts be recognized?
Yes. We feature top contributors on our leaderboard and offer badges and acknowledgments for active volunteers.
For Employers
How can my company work with HopeAndHire?
You can register to post jobs and view resumes submitted by referred job seekers. It’s free to participate, and we encourage second-chance hiring.
What types of candidates are available?
Job seekers have completed resume coaching and interview prep. They’re prepped, vetted through partner referrals, and motivated to work.
Does HopeAndHire offer placement services?
No. We don’t offer matching, onboarding, or ongoing employment services. We’re a platform—not a staffing firm.
Are there tax incentives for hiring second-chance candidates?
Yes. Employers may qualify for programs like the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC). We can direct you to the appropriate resources.
For Partner Organizations
How do I refer a job seeker?
Once your organization is registered, you can submit requests through our platform for resume support, mock interviews, or coaching.
What types of organizations do you work with?
We partner with reentry programs, nonprofits, case managers, transitional housing orgs, and other service providers supporting justice-involved individuals.
Is there a cost for organizations to participate?
No. Our platform is free for approved referral partners.
Can I track my clients’ progress?
Yes. You’ll have access to a dashboard showing completed resumes, mock interviews, and status updates.
Do you offer training for partner staff?
We provide documentation and video walkthroughs to help new partners navigate the platform, but we don’t provide formal staff training.
Technical & Support
How do I reset my password?
Click “Forgot Password” on the login screen and follow the email instructions.
Who do I contact if I need help?
Email us at support@hopeandhire.org or use the contact form on our website.
What if my question isn’t answered here?
Reach out—we’re happy to help. Contact us at support@hopeandhire.org.